Charlie Trotter was rushed to hospital from his Chicago home on Tuesday morning (Nov 5th).

The celebrity chef was discovered unresponsive and emergency crews transported him to Northwestern Memorial Hospital where he was pounced dead.

He was just 54 years old.

The Cook County medical examiner's office said it was notified, and an autopsy was scheduled for Wednesday (Nov 6th).

The innovative chef was the proud owner of Chicago restaurant, 'Charlie Trotter's,' that was considered one of the best in the US. The restaurant was one of three in Chicago that earned two stars by the Michelin Guide.

"His restaurant shaped the world of food," said Dana Cowin, editor-in-chief of Food & Wine magazine. "He was so innovative and focused and intense and really brilliant. When he opened Charlie Trotter he was so original."

Trotter closed after 25 years of serving the people of Chicago in August 2012. He desired to travel the world with his wife, Rochelle Trotter, and go back to school to study philosophy and political science.

Rochelle released a statement on Tuesday night, addressing the sudden death of her husband; "We are incredibly shocked and deeply saddened by the unexpected loss of Charlie at our home in Lincoln Park. He was much loved, and words can not describe how much he will be missed."

She added, "Charlie was a trailblazer and introduced people to a new way of dining when he opened Charlie Trotter's. His impact upon American cuisine and the culinary world at large will always be remembered."

"We thank you so much for your kind words, love and support, we appreciate the respect for our privacy as we work through this difficult time. Details for the memorial service will be forthcoming."